Why Aluminum Wiring Is a Concern
Between 1965 and 1973, approximately two million homes in the United States were built with aluminum wiring instead of copper. During this period, copper prices spiked and builders turned to aluminum as a cheaper alternative. While aluminum wiring is still used today for certain applications, the small-gauge aluminum branch circuit wiring installed in homes during this era has been linked to an elevated risk of electrical fires.
The primary issue with aluminum wiring is that it expands and contracts more than copper when heated and cooled. Over time, this movement can loosen connections at outlets, switches, and junction boxes. Loose connections create resistance, which generates heat and can lead to arcing and fire.
Primary Electrical Solutions regularly encounters aluminum wiring during inspections of older Corpus Christi homes. Many homeowners are unaware their home has aluminum wiring until an inspection or real estate transaction reveals it.
Warning Signs of Aluminum Wiring Problems
Common signs that aluminum wiring connections may be failing include warm-to-the-touch outlet covers or switch plates, flickering lights, a burning smell near outlets or switches, and outlets or switches that spark when plugging in or unplugging devices. Circuit breakers that trip frequently on circuits serving areas with multiple outlets can also indicate failing aluminum connections.
If your Corpus Christi home was built between 1965 and 1973 and you notice any of these warning signs, contact a licensed electrician for an inspection. Primary Electrical Solutions provides aluminum wiring assessments and can recommend the appropriate remediation approach based on the condition of your wiring.
Remediation Options
There are several approaches to addressing aluminum wiring hazards. The most thorough solution is whole-home rewiring with modern copper wiring, which eliminates the aluminum entirely and brings the entire system up to current code. This is recommended for homes with deteriorating aluminum wiring or other electrical deficiencies.
A less expensive option is to have a licensed electrician install copper pigtails at every connection point using COPALUM or AlumiConn connectors. These specialized connectors create a permanent, code-approved bond between the aluminum wire and the copper pigtail that connects to the outlet or switch. This approach addresses the failure points without the cost of complete rewiring.
Primary Electrical Solutions offers both rewiring and copper pigtail remediation for Corpus Christi homes with aluminum wiring. Contact us at (361) 994-0099 for a free assessment and recommendation.